Head of Communications
What You Do
In this role you are accountable for internal & external communications strategy and execution along with the writing/editorial approach for the Washington Spirit. You are a seasoned comms professional with a background in organizations that push boundaries and where comms is a major part of outward facing messaging. You bring both breadth and depth of relationships with national & local media (preferably DMV focused) and you are well-respected by this community. You love to write & weave narratives that align with larger brand/club strategies. You have experience with high-level executive comms strategy & planning. You have experience leading a talented young team and you want to empower those around you. You develop strong relationships with all key team personnel including our team president, head coach and general manager, players, and owner. You influence other areas of the business that are not within your immediate charge with ease. You are an innovator, you are uber curious, you have ideas always popping into your head and have a track record of bringing those ideas to reality.
Who You Do It With
You report directly to the VP Marketing & Communications and your direct peers are our leaders in Brand & Fan Experience. You work very closely with our Player Care, Ticketing, Partnerships, and Merch/Licensing functions. You are also in lock step with our GM/President of Sporting Operations along with our Head Coach ensuring that visions are aligned. You work directly with our players ensuring that they are perceived in the best light and are always prepared —you care about their brands and their future. You lead a team of 4 Full time staff.
How you Do It
You work with a fierce drive to set the standard, with empathy for your colleagues, with flexibility for the sporting calendar, and with the innate belief that this team will be successful and will grow. You come with new ideas often to create the standard for the industry. You ensure all relevant staff across the org are aware of how to leverage news in support of their function and keep everyone informed on the latest headlines about our club and players. You realize that many people depend on you and have an opinion about your area of expertise, and you handle that stress with grace. You are a stickler for execution, and you know that learnings can come from anywhere. You believe that process can unlock creative freedom and are ready to roll up your sleeves.
Key Skills Needed
- Proven ability to deliver fresh new ideas
- Thorough understanding of the media ecosystem & relationships within the industry
- Eagerness to learn about our team/org, preferably already knowledgeable in this area
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal skill
- Strong organizational skills with superior attention to detail
- Passion for driving equity within the sports industry
- Ability to implement high level/complex strategies
- Ability to multitask and meet deadlines
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
- Excellent ability to prioritize, organize & multi-task
- Can push self- & others in an ambiguous environment
- Models’ positive energy & handles stress well
Job Requirements
- At least 7 years of similar experience
- Experience being a collaborator within a team environment
- Must be fully vaccinated against Covid 19
- Available to work nights, weekends & holidays as needed based on sporting calendar
- This role is located in our Falls Church office, we have a Hybrid schedule with Mondays & Friday’s being remote
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.